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Sex Offenses

The mere accusation that a person committed a crime labeled as a "sex offense" is, apart from homicide, the most serious offense imaginable. A simple allegation, not even from the police, can rip a person's life apart. A person can lose their children, livelihood and reputation because of the mere taint of a "sex offense."

In Washington a sex offense is commonly referred to as a crime that will require a person to register as a sex offender. Sex offenses can range from a gross misdemeanor, such as Communicating With a Minor for Immoral Purposes, to Class A Strike-Level crimes such as Rape or Child Molestation in the First Degree. These crimes require a person to register as a sex offender in their community and allow the public to know about their crimes. This requirement essentially limits a person's ability to find gainful employment, custody of their children or, more simply, their reputations.

Apart from the registration requirement that a sex offense mandates other severe consequences will arise. Significant jail usually accompanies a conviction. Once a person leaves prison the Department of Corrections can limit where the person goes, who they talk to and even what they can watch on television. In addition to these consequences and depending on the charge a person can be subject to the Indeterminate Sentencing Review Board. (ISRB). If a person is convicted of a crime subject to the ISRB they may be held in custody past their original sentence. Finally, in Washington state, a person convicted of a sex offense can be subject to the "Two Strike" law governing sex offenses. This would impose a term of life imprisonment if the person has two convictions for certain offenses.

The lawyers at the firm will also work to stop requiring you to register as a sex offender. There are time when registration can be deleted and allow a person to move on with their life.

The Lawyers at Powers & Costeck always recommend that if a person thinks they will be accused of a crime they speak to an attorney immediately. This is even more important if a person faces an accusation that they committed a sex offense. The serious consequences that can arise from such a charge can be life altering. The attorneys at our law firm have the training and experience allow to effectively represent someone facing these allegations.